Our Services / Preventive Visits

What is preventive dental care?

Preventive dental care focuses on maintaining optimal dental hygiene and checking for signs of concern on a regular basis. Routine pediatric dental exams are an essential part of keeping your little one’s smile both healthy and happy. 

Preventive care visits allow Dr. Petruzzi a chance to assess your child’s teeth and gums to search for signs of decay or disease. Coming in twice a year increases the chance that any problems can be caught in the earliest possible stages when treatment is often most effective. 

A professional dental cleaning is also part of routine preventive dental visits. These cleanings are fun, easy, and allow kids to feel comfortable while in the dental chair. 

Why see a dentist when my child’s baby teeth will fall out anyway?

Far too many parents assume that because baby teeth will eventually fall out, they don’t require the same level of care as permanent teeth. This approach can not only lead to painful dental conditions, but it can also threaten a child’s long-term dental health.

Yes, your child’s baby teeth will eventually fall out. That doesn’t mean they aren’t at risk for decay, however, and untreated dental decay can be painful for kids. 

Baby teeth naturally loosen and fall out as the permanent teeth are ready to emerge. When a child loses a baby tooth early because of decay or trauma, surrounding teeth can shift out of position, essentially crowding out the emerging permanent tooth. 

This can lead to the need for orthodontia during later childhood, as teeth can emerge in a misaligned position. It can also lead to the need for complex extractions if baby teeth become wedged into place and cannot fall out on their own. 

What happens during preventive care visits?

The team at Desert Kids Dentistry loves working with children and takes the time to make every visit a pleasant experience for everyone involved. They welcome you and your child warmly and encourage kids to interact with staff members. 

Once you head back, Dr. Petruzzi greets your child and explains what to expect from the visit. A routine dental exam is performed to check for signs of decay or gum disease. Once your child is old enough to communicate, Dr. Petruzzi takes the time to explain each step and shows your child the tools used during the exam. 

Depending on your child’s age and dental needs, X-rays may be taken during preventive care visits. A thorough cleaning is part of the process, and it’s fast and fun. Your child will learn how to take great care of their teeth at home, and you’ll have a chance to ask questions or express concerns. 

If your little one is overdue for a preventive care visit, booking an appointment is as simple as a phone call or a few moments on the online scheduling page.